Derby-based publisher Crème de la Crime wrote: "We are unable to accept new submissions at the moment."

However, these are words both publishers will have come to regret given that once published in 2013, 'Cuckoo's Calling' achieved critical acclaim and substantial success - albeit after Rowling's authorship was revealed.

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Finished copies of 'The Cuckoo's Calling' come off the print line on July 18, 2013 in Bungay, England

Rowling wrote on Twitter she hoped her experience of rejection would give hope to writers attempting to get their work published.

And she highlighted one tiny bit of irony sure to terrify publishing professionals everywhere.